Two boxer-breed dogs found left in vehicle at -18°C for over two hours
NIPIGON, ON – NEWS – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers from the Nipigon Detachment responded to a report in the early morning hours of January 31, 2026, concerning a possible breach of court-ordered release conditions.
During the investigation, officers discovered two short-haired boxer-breed dogs inside an unheated vehicle, parked outdoors in extreme cold.
Temperatures at the time were approximately -18°C, and the dogs were believed to have been left inside the vehicle for over two hours without care.
Police later located the suspect at a residence which they had been legally prohibited from attending, as per a prior court order.
Charges Laid
As a result of the investigation, a male, Mackenzie Loyst, 25, of no fixed address, has been arrested and faces the following charges under the Criminal Code of Canada:
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Causing unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to animals – Section 445.1(1)(a)
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Failure to comply with a release order – Two counts, Section 145(5)(a)
The accused was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.
Animals Safe and Recovering
The two dogs are currently in the care of a local resident and appeared to be unharmed at the time of rescue.
Public Assistance Requested
Anyone with information that may assist police is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
To report cases of animal neglect or abuse, contact the Ontario Animal Protection Call Centre (OAPCC) at 1-833-9-ANIMAL, available 24/7.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
All charges are accusations. Accused are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
